La Mortella began as a rocky hillside with almost no soil and is now home to over 800 plant species from five continents. Russell Page's original design created a lower garden of tropical pools and exotic planting, while the upper garden opens into wide views over Forio and the sea. The name comes from the myrtle — mortella in the local dialect — that covered the hillside when Walton first arrived.
The garden is open from April through November, Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday, 9am to 7pm. Entry is around €12. The William Walton Museum inside has scores, photographs, and personal effects. Plan at least two hours; serious garden-lovers will want longer. On concert weekends — typically alternating Saturdays and Sundays from April to November — the amphitheatre fills for afternoon recitals of chamber music and opera. Book ahead for concerts.